Lucas also received RM5,000 in recognition for his work in using music as a transformative tool to empower students with special needs.
In addition to the award, RM50,000 was awarded to SK Pendidikan Khas (P) Kota Kinabalu to fund a project that brings Lucas’s educational vision to life.
Working with visually- and hearing-impaired students, Lucas established a specialised music room for them despite the limited resources he had.
He also formed a boy band, giving his students a stage to shine and a medium to express themselves confidently.
The music teacher’s long-term vision includes forming Sabah’s first student ensemble that combines traditional and modern instruments, besides building a dedicated music space tailored for deaf learners.
“To many, music may seem like a luxury – but to my students, it is a lifeline. It’s how they express emotions, connect with others, and begin to believe in their own worth.
“I started with almost nothing – just a belief that music could change lives,” Lucas said, adding that the award was a reminder that inclusion is possible, and that every student deserves the opportunity to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
“I share this honour with them, because their resilience is what inspires me every day,” Lucas said.
Registering his pride at his music teacher’s achievements, headmaster Muhammad Hamka Eallie, added: “Stefanus has given our students a sense of identity, pride, and purpose.
“He doesn’t see their disabilities – he sees their potential. He has transformed the way our school views learning, inclusion, and what it means to empower every child. The impact he’s made is deep and lasting, and we are incredibly proud to see his work recognised on a national stage.”
Following over 1,000 nomination submissions in March, 10 educators were shortlisted and profiled on the RISE Educator website, giving the public a chance to vote for their favourites. Over 65,000 public votes were cast, accounting for 25% of the final result.
The remaining 75% of votes were cast by a distinguished panel of judges. The judges’ evaluation focused on each teacher’s impact, creativity, and the sustainability of their initiatives.
From the shortlist, five finalists were selected. Besides Lucas, the others included Mohd Nur Hifzhan Noordan (SK Sungai Passai, Sibu, Sarawak); Dr Mohd Zamri Husaini (SK Kampung Tun Razak, Melaka); Izzat Fahim Ibrahim (SK Tagibang, Kota Marudu, Sabah); and Hallsen Justin (SK Timbua, Ranau, Sabah).
The four finalists each received RM1,000 in recognition of their contributions. Their respective schools also received RM10,000 each, aimed at enhancing infrastructure and learning environments to further support meaningful educational outcomes and student development.
The award ceremony was graced by Fadzliaton Zainudin, deputy director of the educational resources and technology division of the Education Ministry, who delivered a keynote address to commemorate the occasion.
In her speech, Fadzliaton commended Taylor’s College for consistently championing quality education by recognising and supporting the incredible efforts of educators on the ground.
“The RISE Educator Award highlights how real change often starts with small, consistent acts of care and dedication,” she added.
Meanwhile Josephine Tan, campus director of Taylor’s College, shared that over the past five years, the RISE Educator Award has revealed the remarkable resilience and creativity of teachers who quietly transform the meaning of education.
“These educators don’t wait for ideal conditions – they create opportunities with what they have. What drives them isn’t just innovation, but deep purpose and belief in their students. Many even fund their own projects, expecting little recognition in return.
“The RISE Educator Award has grown into more than just a reward, it is now a platform that brings educators, communities, and changemakers together to celebrate impact, exchange ideas, and inspire one another,” Tan said.
Since its inception, the RISE Educator Award has celebrated 18 educators, and channelled more than RM200,000 in grants and development support to schools across the country.
For more information on the RISE Educator Award, visit Taylor’s College website.